How to Keep Shin Guards From Irritating Your Skin

How to Keep Shin Guards From Irritating Your Skin
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Shin guards wrap around the front of the shins and ankles, staying in place via a strap or stirrup. These protective devices contain a hard outer shell and soft fabric lining. Shin guards fit snugly against the skin, trapping sweat and creating heat and friction -- an ideal environment for fungus and bacteria to grow and flourish. Proper hygienics keep sweat and microorganisms at bay, stopping the shin guards from irritating your skin.

Step 1

Wash the shin guards after every use. If the sun is shining, hang the shin guards out to dry. The ultra-violet rays of the sun help kill bacteria. Hang-dry indoors if the weather is bad.

Step 2

Cleanse your skin with an anti-bacterial soap after removing the shin pads. Pat your skin dry with a clean bath towel afterward.

Step 3

Wear a pair of liner socks under the shin guards. Liner socks have moisture-wick qualities that draw sweat away from your skin. Wash the liner socks after each use.

Tips and Warnings

  • Purchase several sets of shin guards so you always have a clean set for games and practices.
  • Never share or wear anyone else's shin guards or personal sport's equipment. If a rash develops after wearing shin guards, have the rash evaluated by a physician. Rashes caused by bacteria or fungus may require a prescription medication to heal the rash.

Things You'll Need

  • Anti-bacterial soap
  • Clean bath towel
  • Liner socks

References

Article reviewed by Veronique Von Tufts Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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